In college and graduate school, I sneaked in as many film theory classes as possible without upsetting my journalism advisers. One of my favorite areas of study: German expressionism, where the outward appearance of a character reflects their inner nature. (See: “The Cabinet of Dr. Calgari.”)
So I’ve always been fascinated by drawings that reflect this aesthetic, and in the 19th century there were many portraits made of craftsmen that depicted them as being made from their tools.
Perpetual researcher Jeff Burks turned up these 10 portraits for your enjoyment. Not much is known about them. Here are some details:
Ten fantastical portraits of tradesmen.
Blacksmith – Le Forgeron.
Joiner – Le Menuisier.
Musician – Le Musicien.
Fisherman – Le Pêcheur.
Fruitiere – La Fruitière.
Tailor – Le Tailleur.
Barber – Le Perruquier.
Florist – La Bouquetière.
The Writer – L’Ecrivain.
Armourer – L’Armurier.
[n.d., c.1820.]
10 coloured aquatints, very scarce. Each sheet c. 260 x 120mm, 10¼ x 4¾”. Trimmed for inclusion in a scrapbook, signs of wear.
I have to say the one of the writer is creepy. But at least I’m not made out of fish.
— Christopher Schwarz
